Founder’s Message
Why I Started C.H.A.T. for Democracy
By Gil Cintron, Founder & CEO
I created C.H.A.T. for Democracy because I believe that civic education is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Too many students are growing up without understanding how government works, what their rights are, or how to make their voices heard. That gap in knowledge leads to a gap in power.
As someone who’s worked in the nonprofit world for decades and spent years in recovery and advocacy, I know what transformation looks like. I’ve seen how the right message at the right time can change a life. And in today’s digital age, I also see how powerful tools like ChatGPT can help make learning more engaging and accessible—especially for the students who need it most.
This program isn’t about politics—it’s about participation. It’s about showing kids that they have a place in democracy, no matter their background. It’s about teaching the value of honesty, advocacy, and critical thinking. And it’s about preparing the next generation to lead with purpose and integrity.
C.H.A.T. for Democracy is my way of giving back and building forward. I hope you’ll join us.